Natural hair care products like Reetha (Kunkudukai) powder are often considered completely safe. But can you overdo a good thing? And what about the hair fall many people notice after moving to a new city or travelling?
In this article based on his educational video, Dr. John Watts — dermatologist, trichologist and hair transplant surgeon in Hyderabad — answers both of these viewer questions.
Does a change of place cause hair fall?
Viewer Rinky Adduri asked whether a change of place or environment leads to hair loss, and whether the lost hair can grow back.
Dr. Watts explained that there is some truth to the link between hair fall and a change of place, environment or water — whether due to holiday travel or relocation. The good news is that such changes are usually temporary.
"Once you return to favourable conditions, the hair regrowth would resume normally," said Dr. John Watts.
When should you see a doctor?
If hair regrowth does not resume and hair loss continues even after returning to favourable conditions, Dr. Watts advised consulting a dermatologist.
"They need to take out a blood test to find out vitamin deficiency. Apart from vitamin deficiency, proper sleep, nutrition and proper water intake have to be given importance," he advised.
Can Reetha powder make hair dry?
Another viewer, Chandni Arikathota, asked whether excessive use of Reetha or Kunkudukai powder can make hair dry.
Dr. Watts said there is a strong possibility that too much use of Reetha powder can have side effects on the hair. While a natural shampoo using Reetha or Kunkudukai powder is always better than chemical shampoos, overuse can lead to frizzy hair.
"One's hair can become dry and it may even lead to split ends," warned Dr. John Watts.
How to minimise the damage
To counter dryness and minimise damage, Dr. Watts shared a simple fix: after shampooing with a Reetha powder-based shampoo, apply a hair conditioner and leave it on for one minute to one-and-a-half minutes before rinsing with water.
The bottom line
Hair fall from a change of place or water is usually temporary and settles once conditions normalise — but persistent shedding deserves a dermatologist's evaluation and a blood test. Natural cleansers like Reetha are gentler than chemical shampoos, but moderation matters: overuse can leave hair dry, frizzy and prone to split ends, so always follow up with a conditioner.
This article is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Consult a qualified dermatologist for diagnosis and treatment.
Frequently asked questions
Does a change of place or water cause hair fall?
There is some truth to this link, but the hair fall is usually temporary. According to Dr. John Watts, hair regrowth resumes normally once you return to favourable conditions.
What if hair fall continues even after returning home?
Consult a dermatologist and get a blood test to check for vitamin deficiencies. Proper sleep, nutrition and adequate water intake are also important.
Can too much Reetha (Kunkudukai) powder damage hair?
Yes. While natural shampoos are better than chemical ones, overuse of Reetha powder can make hair dry and frizzy and may even cause split ends.
How can I prevent dryness from Reetha-based shampoo?
After shampooing, apply a hair conditioner and leave it on for about 1 to 1.5 minutes before rinsing with water.
